The Gleasons announced that they were expecting in July after the completion of a successful in vitro fertilization procedure. They have a son, Rivers, who will turn 7 later this week, according to Nola.com. Rivers was born nine months after Gleason was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 2011.

Steve Gleason’s punt block was immortalized in a statue outside the Superdome. (Getty)

Gleason played for the Saints for seven years, from 2000-2006. He’s best known for blocking a kick in the first game in the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina, helping the Saints seal a win over the rival Atlanta Falcons. He remains an active presence in New Orleans charitable endeavors.